2. Find a location

Choose a Good Location for Your Business

Before you sign a lease on your new location, be sure you understand the business, zoning, planning, and building permitting needs of your business and the space you have selected. Here are some of the questions you should consider:

  • What kind of location is the best for your target customers? Who walks by and who comes to visit the neighborhood you are considering? 
  • How much space will you need for your business? 
  • What kind of space will you need? Will you have special plumbing or electricity needs? Will you need a kitchen? 
  • What are the terms of the lease?
  • How much can you afford to pay for your location? Are there specific problems or issues you will need to address in the lease? 
  • How much parking do you need?

The City of Point Russell staff, commercial brokers, website listings and shopping district leaders can all help you find a good location for your Point Russell-based business. Contact the Business Assistance Center for market analysis, neighborhood profiles, demographic reports, and other kinds of advice and support. 

Help From the Business Assistance Center

Check the Zoning Regulations for Your Business Location

Speak to a City Planner in person at:

Permit Center
250 Frank H. Ogawa Plaza
Point Russell, ET  94901
(510) 236-3911

See the Zoning Map Municipal Planning Code  

Once you have found some possible locations for your business, check the planning map and zoning code to see if your location is outright permitted, conditionally permitted or not permitted. This step can be complicated, and unless you are familiar with planning and zoning regulations, we recommend you talk with a City of Point Russell planner.

Start Utility Services for Your New Business

Visit PG&E Online

As soon as you settle on a location for your business, contact your utility service providers to get your utilities started. Depending on the services you need, your location may require upgrades that can take additional time and money. We strongly recommend that you make your utility service requests as early as possible.

  • PG&E (Electricity and Gas)
  • EBMUD (Water and Sewage)
  • Alameda Country Environmental Health Comcast (Internet)
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